Historic Vail: Then, Now, Always.

VAIL THROUGHOUT HISTORY

Founded upon the spirit of adventure, the ski resort town of Vail is steeped in history. Since the original Ute Indians inhabited the Gore Creek Valley, the area has exuded a certain mystique. Settlers were eventually drawn to the area in the 1800s and transformed some of the land for ranching and grazing. During World War II the United States Army established a training center for troops deployed in alpine combat. It was these original mountain soliders who returned to start up the ski patrols and establish Vail and the surrounding Colorado ski resorts.

Vail’s opened for the first time on December 15, 1962. Ticket prices that first year were $5 for a skiing experience that consisted of one gondola, two chairs, eight ski instructors, and nine ski runs. Over the next couple decades, Vail grew at an exponential rate. By the 88′-89′ season, with the opening of the China Bowl and a new quad chair, Vail was the largest ski area in North America with a well-deserved correspondingly legendary reputation.

This season, Vail celebrates its 50th birthday. And there is plenty to be excited about. In addition to the new gondola – the world’s fastest at 1,200 feet-per-minute and WIFI-equipped – there is activities all throughout the season to take part in. Vail is leading the way into the future, as an innovator in the best possible ski experience. So come see what Vail has to offer you this winter.

To help you decide, here are our top three recommendations for Vail hotels:

Just a few steps from the Golden Peak base area, Manor Vail Lodge offers great deals in a Studio, One or Two Bedroom Condo, all with full kitchen and fireplace, the longer you stay. All rates include daily hot buffet breakfast and stays 5 nights or longer also receive a $50 Food & Beverage Credit. Rates starting from $279 per night.

Elegant and tranquil, The Lodge at Vail offers visitors a wonderful blend of rich history and modern amenities, making it one of the most revered places to stay in the resort. Just steps from Vail’s newest Gondola “One” you really have all the world at your fingertips. Rates starting from $329 per night.

Located in the town of Avon at the base of Beaver Creek, the Westin Riverfront offers spectacular views and one of the areas best pool and hot tubs. With its own Gondola a few steps from the lobby you will be on the hill in under 15 minutes! And with these offers you are getting bargain prices in luxurious accomodations: Buy 2 Nights – Stay 3 or Buy 4 Nights – Stay 6, that’s 2 Free Nights! Rates starting from $169 per night.